The defending champions were again too strong for their opposition, cruising to a seventh consecutive victory at the tournament.

The Japanese side, winners of the last four titles, have not lost at the competition since they were beaten 5-2 by the United States in an opening round contest in Edmonton in 2012.

They have now stretched their formidable winning streak to 19 matches and will be firm favourites for the gold medal.

Japan will take on South Korea in their final super round contest tomorrow in what will be a dead rubber as the host nation are already eliminated and cannot qualify for the bronze medal match.

Canada and Chinese Taipei will clash for the last available slot in the gold medal contest after the Asian side suffered a second straight loss.

Chinese Taipei were on the end of a 10-0 hammering at the hands of Japan yesterday and struggled again today as they were narrowly beaten by Venezuela.

The South American team moved up to fourth place in the standings by clinching a 2-0 win but are likely to miss out on a spot in the final as a win for Canada over Chinese Taipei will spell the end of their chances.

The result means Chinese Taipei will need to seal a comprehensive victory against the Canadians to stand any chance of progressing to the final on Sunday (September 11). 

Chinese Taipei will remain hopeful that they will get the chance to compete for a medal and a win for Venezuela against the Australians tomorrow will secure their place in the third place play-off.

In the consolation round, the United States, who suffered a disappointing opening round exit, picked up their fourth victory, again by a comfortable margin as they beat Cuba 10-1.

India were too strong for Pakistan, emerging with a 19-2 triumph, while The Netherlands overcame Hong Kong 9-4.